MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – April is Autism Awareness Month, and local restaurant, Johnny D’s Waffles and Bakery, is using different methods to try and promote and raise funds for the cause. Executive chef, Jamie Saunders, was on News 13 Now Friday to talk about its efforts. Saunders says they’re selling t-shirts, bracelets and pins for the cause. She says the restaurant will match all the proceeds and donate it to Champion Autism Network, a local organization based in Surfside Beach.

Additionally, Saunders says Johnny D’s is using social media to spread the word. Each day the business is featuring a boy or girl with autism and telling his or her story through Facebook and Twitter. They even have puzzle pieces set up at the restaurant for customers to use in pictures and post online using the hashtag: #weareawareatjds. Saunders says participants who have posted will be entered for a chance to win a a Johnny D’s gift certificate at the end of the month.

This is a cause that is close to Saunder’s heart. She says her 4-year-old son, James, has autism. Saunders says her goal is to make a difference, no matter how small. She hopes to give others a look into the daily struggles of those who are dealing with autism, and to simply spread awareness and love.

For more information go to Johnny D’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/johnnydswafflesandbakery/?fref=ts